VAST increases trainer efficiency and reduces the training burden by providing visual feedback on the key elements of handheld detector swing technique including the swing speed, swing path and coverage, and the detector search head height and angle relative to the ground. The visual display allows for a detailed analysis of a detector operator’s performance that can be used to enhance instruction and after-action review.

How It Works

VAST Training provides visual feedback on detector swing by tracking the 3D position, speed and tilt angle of a detector search head. The system includes a small transmitter module that is attached to the shaft of any handheld detector and contains ultrasonic transmitters, an ultrasonic height sensor and a miniature inertial measurement unit.

The transmitter emits ultrasonic pulses and communicates wirelessly with two tracking belts that contain ultrasonic receivers, which are placed on the edges of the training lane. The belts communicate over Bluetooth with an Android tablet that processes and visualizes detector trajectory information to the trainer.

Features

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1. Visualize Errors

The system paints the area covered by the search head and plots markers if the operator exceeds acceptable parameters for detector height, speed and tilt angle.

2. Archive Training Data

The VAST application allows users to add trainees and link visual feedback to a specific trainee for archival purposes.

3. Expert Templates for Instruction

Create and save templates of expert sweep search technique to use as visual aids to teach correct technique to novice operators.

4. Portable

VAST Training fits in a single handheld military case and can be packed/unpacked in a few minutes.

5. Battery Powered

Each system component, excluding the tablet, is powered using disposable AA batteries.

6. Quick Setup

Two operators can set up and start the system in under ten minutes.

7. Detector Agnostic

VAST Training is designed to be compatible with a wide range of popular handheld detectors.